Honda Insight Off to a Good Start

In its first month of sales the Honda Insight is outstripping its nearest rivals in the Hybrid sector.

As April quickly comes and goes Honda are adding up the sales figures for the Insight’s first month in the showrooms. The way things have gone not many have been waiting in the showrooms too long.

Since the 4th of April 229 Honda Insights have been sold compared to just 198 of its nearest rival the Toyota Prius. When added to the 79 Honda Civic Hybrids sole they racked up a total of 308 units this month.

“The Insight is proving a hit with cost-savvy consumers looking for a cleaner car that’s more affordable,” said John Kingston, Honda (UK)’s Environment and Government Affairs Manager.

“More and more people want a car that makes sound financial sense, especially in the current economic climate, and the Insight offers numerous running cost savings such as reduced road tax of £15 per year and great fuel economy.”

Insight customers will also benefit from high residual values of 44 per cent and exemption from the London Congestion Charge. Company car drivers and businesses can take advantage of the same benefits plus low benefit-in-kind tax, reduced national insurance payments and increased write down allowance.

Honda expects to sell around 7,000 Insights in the UK this year. The annual global sales target is approximately 200,000 units. The Insight 1.3-litre IMA SE costs £15,490 on-the-road.

The low residual values affect the lease price in a very positive way reducing the payments to just £249.95 plus VAT per month. This exceptional value has helped Honda shift so many of these vehicles.

E. Dooley

08/05/2009